Back in early May we brought you news that SRAM had released the latest iteration of their 1X drivetrain technology: the more affordable and eagerly anticipated X1. As of this week X1 is now available in New Zealand and the crew at W H Worrall have kindly sent us a set to review. We'll be releasing the usual full review in an upcoming issue of the magazine, but in the mean time here is a brief re-cap of the details, some firm pricing, and a few photos of our sample components prior to being assembled on a test bike.

By now SRAM's 1X technology should need no introduction, but I'll give a very brief one anyway. SRAM 1X does away with the need for multiple front chainrings by offering an 11 speed rear cassette with a broad range of gear ratios. 1X also significantly improves chain retention as doing away with mulitple front chainrings has allowed SRAM to develop a 'narrow/wide' tooth profile that better matches chainring to chain and, in combination with the 'X-Horizon' rear derailleur, reduces the likelihood of dropping a chain. In a nutshell, SRAM 1X systems provide better chain retention, and simplify the whole system by doing away with the need for multiple front chainrings and/or a chain guide.

Here's a vid from SRAM that gives a full run down on the X1 groupset.

Pricing:

As mentioned above, X1 will be offered in New Zealand as a bundle including the 1000 X-Sync cranks, a 32 tooth chainring, A GXP bottom bracket, the cluster, the chain, the rear derailleur, and the shifter.

X1 bundle - $1182

Of course you'll need a rear wheel with a XD freewheel to run X1. Alternatively there will be another bundle option that includes a pair of Roam 30 wheels (with XD freewheel) ready to roll with X1 straight out of the box.

X1 and Roam 30 wheelset bundle - $1814

We're yet to take a spin on the X1 groupset but as soon as we have we'll update you on our first impressions.